Strategic Positioning Analysis for Seaports

In this chapter, a Strategic positioning analysis (SPA) is developed as a specific analytical approach consisting of a product portfolio analysis, a shift-share analysis and a diversification analysis. The SPA describes the performance of ports and traffic categories within ports in terms of market share, growth rate, diversification and value added. The SPA needs to be used taking into account the port's position with regard to value-added created by the different traffic categories. By using this integrative instrument, indications on the overall strategic position of ports are provided and will benefit strategy formulation and decision-making on port development.